Posts

Understanding Scope of Practice: A guide for Pilates Instructors and Advanced Fitness Professionals

Image
Introduction The concept of "scope of practice" is standard in professions where client safety and well-being are paramount.  It defines the boundaries within which professionals can operate based on their qualifications, training, and the standards set by regulatory bodies.  Although this concept is often associated with medical practitioners, it holds equal weight in the fitness industry, including among Pilates instructors and fitness professionals. This document explores the scope of practice for these roles, drawing comparisons to medically trained practitioners to highlight its impact on professional accountability and client safety. Scope of Practice in Medicine For medically trained practitioners, scope of practice includes all the activities they are trained and legally permitted to perform.  This encompasses diagnosing patients, prescribing treatments, and performing specific medical procedures.  Regulatory bodies ensure that practitioners only undertake t

The Importance of Specialised Pilates CPD Courses for Menopausal Health: Responding to Criticism with Facts

Image
Introduction The launch by Mbodies Training Academy of specialised courses such as "Pilates for Midlife Health and the Menopause" has sparked discussions in the fitness and Pilates communities. Some critics view it as unnecessary specialisation in an already well-established field.  This blog post aims to address criticisms that such courses are merely pandering to "wokeness," by demonstrating the tangible benefits these targeted programs offer to clients undergoing menopausal transitions.  In this article we will explore how hormonal and psychological changes during perimenopause and menopause can significantly influence exercise efficacy, and why tailored Pilates programs are essential if an instructor is to maximise exercise and mental health value to their clients. Understanding Menopause and Exercise Menopause marks a significant change in a woman's life, accompanied by various hormonal adjustments that affect the body physically and mentally. These c

Pilates Apparatus Instructor Training - Post COVID19

Image
    The debate surrounding the most effective method of Pilates Apparatus instructor training in the post - COVID19 era – whether face-to-face, online, or a hybrid approach – has become a topic of much discussion and analysis.  The pandemic has undeniably transformed the landscape of professional development, particularly in specialised fields like Pilates apparatus disciplines.  This shift has prompted us at Mbodies Training Academy to critically evaluate the efficacy and accessibility of various training methods to ensure we continue to meet the evolving needs of our instructors and, by extension, their clients. Pre-COVID, the notion of online instructor training was met with scepticism, if not outright dismissal, by traditional training academies.  Similarly, the idea of conducting Pilates classes remotely seemed far-fetched to many experienced instructors.  However, the global pandemic necessitated a swift and comprehensive pivot to online platforms, with virtually every physioth

The Crucial Role of Specialised Training in Pilates for Low Bone Density Management

Image
For Pilates Instructors, Medical Movement Professionals and Advanced Fitness professionals the pursuit of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in specialised populations is not just a testament to an instructor's commitment to their craft, but also a reflection of their dedication to the well-being and safety of their clients.    At Mbodies Training Academy, we often receive inquiries from instructors eager to broaden their professional knowledge and expertise, particularly in the realm of special populations.    A recurring question that arises is: "Which of your courses would you recommend I take first?" This question, albeit simple, underscores a significant gap in the traditional Pilates training narrative.  The majority of these instructors come with a solid foundation in Pilates Matwork qualifications but may not have taken Pilates apparatus training.  Regardless of their background, our advice remains consistent, emphasising the importance of understanding

Mbodies Training Academy & Chris Onslow Pilates Consultancy: Reflecting on 2023 and Looking Ahead

Image
As the year 2023 draws to a close, we at Mbodies Training Academy and Chris Onslow Pilates Consultancy wish to share our achievements and plans with you and extend our warmest season’s greetings to all. Adapting to the Evolving Pilates Landscape This year marked a significant phase of adaptation and growth for us.  Acknowledging the dynamic nature of the modern fitness world, Mbodies Training Academy has continued to pivot our offerings to meet these changes. Our efforts have been geared towards addressing the challenges posed by substandard Pilates products and integrating the needs of the contemporary fitness market into our curriculum. Growth in Online Learning and CPD Our shift towards high-quality, flexible Pilates CPD, initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, has strengthened this year.  By choosing Thinkific as our learning portal, we've seen a notable 30% increase in participation in our Special Population CPD courses.  This approach aligns with the current trends in medical

The complementary benefits of Myofascial release and Pilates

Image
The combination of myofascial release with Pilates has been gaining popularity during the last decade.  Clients quickly identify the added value of the dual approach in the studio and will often practice self-myofascial release at home between Pilates sessions. Why is this ? Complementary Benefits: Myofascial release and Pilates offer complementary benefits. Myofascial release focuses on releasing tension in muscles and fascia allowing more range of movement around joints as well as preparing soft tissues before stretching, while Pilates targets focused strengthening, flexibility, muscle balancing, and improved posture. By combining the two clients quickly recognise the improvements the dual approach delivers. Enhanced Results: The release of muscular tension and fascial restrictions often improves the effectiveness of Pilates exercises, allowing for better movement patterns and muscle engagement. Pain Management : Many clients turn to Pilates to aid pain management as well a

New for 2023 : Dance For Your Bones and Pilates:

Image
  New for 2023 : Dance For Your Bones and Pilates: A Fusion of Dance and Pilates exercise to Boost Bone Health Embarking on a revolutionary journey towards comprehensive bone health, The UK Royal Osteoporosis Society introduces an innovative exercise program, "Dance For Your Bones."  In a remarkable twist, the Mbodies Training Academy aligns this initiative with their Bone Safe Pilates CPD Instructor courses, unveiling a harmonious blend of impact-based and safe-strengthening exercises for optimal bone wellness. Dance Your Way to Stronger Bones Developed in collaboration with Scottish Ballet experts, Dance for Your Bones is a breakthrough program designed by The UK Royal Osteoporosis Society.  It combines weight-bearing, moderate-impact exercises with artistically curated dance routines.  The primary aim is to inspire individuals to embrace impact exercises that are not only effective but enjoyable, fostering a consistent and engaging fitness routine. Structured in s